Tag Archives: Pastor Funeral

Your heart sinks to your stomach, you feel a little light-headed, sweaty, clammy…nope, it’s not the flu. You have just been asked to officiate your very first funeral. Are there some guidelines to work from? What are some do’s & don’ts so you don’t embarrass yourself? Don’t worry, I got you covered. With the help and guidance of my senior pastor, here are some protocols that will help ease your mind.

Prior to Funeral

Attend calling hours – be kind, ask how to help/service requests (leave after short visit)

Print off Obituary online

Review with family what needs to be included in service

Order of Service – give to Fun. Dir., Musicians/Participants & Head of Family Prep.

Leave preacher’s thoughts LAST; all other parts of ceremony early (allow appropriate special music at end if needed)

Arrive 30 minutes prior to funeral

Speak with Funeral Director prior to service

Ask if anything different in service (poem, music, military, etc) needs added to schedule

(If Out of Area) – Ask for any special/local customs

Service

15 minute message

Finish with prayer and pay respects & stand by coffin

Start compiling list of funeral passages and remarks now, so you have a resource for when unexpected happens

Gravesite

Follow the lead car, do not agree to leading the group

Order: Preface Scripture, Read Scripture, Short Recap, Close in Prayer (5 minutes or so

After prayer, pause for Funeral Director, go and greet family & stand to side

As family begins to leaves, depart

After Service Meal

Call church on way back from Gravesite – ladies with food set-up/prep.

If invited & schedule is clear – stay with family & eat; dismiss yourself when appropriate

Hope this helps. What are some tips that you might have for the novice funeral officiant? Bottom line, make sure those who hear your message know how their story will end. Give a clear Gospel and invite the audience to make a choice in their lives before it is too late. All while giving a personal tribute to the deceased. You got this. Depend on the Lord and prayer, and to God be the glory.